I would look for something that has not had alot of electrical mods like stereos and lights, as long as the wiring harness is not all hacked up and the body is not rusted beyond repair I would get it.  Mechanical stuff you are going to have to fix / upgrade sooner or later especially if you are going to do all the things you mentioned.  My 83 is all stock, no visible rust, 220k and has been my DD for the past 5 years. I would tell everyone that it just wont die, I would'nt hesitate to drive it anywhere.  Now everything is letting go all at once, I lost the rear third, throwout bearing (I think), the windsheild wipers, passenger seatbelt retractor all witin a week. They are tough but are still machines and wear out but I would not trade mine for anything.